Save the hassle of packing your belongings time after time and let us be your home away from home. Rich in history and beauty, the Mackinaw area offers many ideal destinations just a short drive away. The following are examples of day trips that include many of the scenic and historical sites found in Northern Michigan.

Museums, Parks, and Historical Sites

Sometimes simple pleasures are best. Few things in life are more satisfying than a sunshiny day and a stroll beside sparkling blue waters while seabirds soar and wheel. We’d like to share our favorite walk with you.

Begin at Conkling Heritage Park, named for Edgar Conkling, founder of Mackinaw City. The park consists of a broad marina green with a bandshell where free concerts are held throughout the warmer months. Adjoining the park are two marinas: The Mackinaw City Municipal Marina and the brand new, 125 slip, State Dock Harbor. Take a moment to admire the boats!

Conkling Park is the site of many events throughout the year, including two large arts and crafts shows. It is the best place to watch our mammoth Fourth of July fireworks display. After fully perusing the park’s pleasures, proceed north on S. Huron Street, keeping the Straits’ waters on your right until you arrive at Alexander Henry Park. It is an amazing place. The park is dominated by the beautifully restored Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse. It contains 1700 feet of handicapped accessible walkway. There are picnic tables and barbeque grills. Walk down to the beach and gaze at the majestic Mackinac Bridge.

Ahead is the deep green of the Upper Peninsula, and a little to your right is renowned Mackinac Island. To your left is the fully restored old fort, now home to historic Colonial Michilimackinac. The fort dominated the Straits from 1712-1781. You are standing next to what was once the central trading post of a vast region. Where to go next? Why not just retrace your steps. It will be just as beautiful the second time around.